Sivan Perdue, LCPAT, ATR-BC

she/her/hers | see-vohn 

I am a licensed Art Therapist based in Salisbury, Maryland but offer in-person services in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties. I also offer virtual services throughout Maryland and Delaware. After ten years of working in group practices and nursing homes, I began my private practice so I could have more control and freedom while also providing higher quality therapy for my clients. I didn't always think I would work with individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, but when I was in graduate school, during my first internship, I fell in love. It is important to me to be able to use my practice, unique skills and talents to help support folx with dementia and their caregivers. I love being able to use art therapy to help individuals beyond their diagnosis, and to offer individualized counseling that is not governed by paperwork.
With this population, so often words can fail and it is difficult to verbalize our internal experiences. Art can offer a means of expression as well as opportunity to reconnect with the parts of ourselves that have been forgotten. 

Why art therapy?

I chose art therapy because I’ve always enjoyed creative expression and psychology. I believe that the act of making art is an integral part of healing, allowing us to get in touch with what we already possess. During the art therapy session I focus on improving the client's sense of physical, mental and emotional well-being by using the client's innate ability to create or appreciate art. I enjoy using an open studio concept that encourages you to create without judgment, engage in all your senses, find an artistic flow, and live in the present moment - all with guidance and support from your therapist. I believe in an equal relationship between therapist and client. Unlike traditional therapy, sessions feel more like guided conversations with a friend. I laugh when you laugh, I may tear up when you cry, and when you are passionate about something, I am, too.

The foundation of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I care about my clients as individuals. I value your well-being, and you cross my mind outside of the session. Part of good therapy is that we invest in that relationship.  I strive to provide an inclusive space to explore and process the life changes and unique challenges that folx encounter when living with dementia. 

I support BIPOC, LGTBQ+ and trans rights. As a psychotherapist, I am committed to do no harm--which, for me, means doing my own inner work to uncover my own conscious and unconscious biases, in an effort to transform a system that perpetuates oppression and  White Supremacy. I am actively working on unlearning the old story and doing my part to dismantle the racism and privilege within myself and within my community. I am continually educating myself in order to better support my clients of all identities and backgrounds and to integrate my values into every part of my work and create a practice that promotes inclusion for all.  

Credentials

• Nazareth College of Rochester, BS in Studio Art & MS in Art Therapy
• Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist, Maryland (ATC-074)
• Professional Art Therapist, Delaware (AT-0010007)
• Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC# 07-230)
• American Art Therapy Credentialing Board
• State of Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists